June 2008 CPRO e-Newsletter
Pike to Celebrate its 13th Annual Blues Festival on Sat. June 21
The sounds of great music and the smells of delicious food will fill the air on the first official day of summer at the area’s favorite street party-- the Columbia Pike Blues Festival, Sat. June 21 from 1:00 to 8:00 pm. Several blocks of S. Walter Reed Dr. just north of the Pike will be blocked off to make room for this year’s expanded event. Thanks to our presenting sponsor Dog Paws University, our benefactors Yuengling Beer, PikeRide and the Car-Free Diet, the Washington Forrest Foundation, and others, admission is FREE. Community groups and dozens of colorful vendors will line the street, and the children’s activity area will feature a moon bounce, face painting and arts and crafts. A great variety of lunch, snack, and dinner choices will be yours from Big Daddy’s BBQ, Rincome Thai, to Bob & Edith’s Diner, plus Indian and Mediterranean cuisine, Italian ice, funnel cakes, ice cream and more. The music kicks off at 1:00 pm with Danny Blew & The Blues Crew, who will be followed by Karl Stoll & The Dangerzone. The Melanie Mason Band is next at 3:00 pm, and at 4:00 pm we will welcome Tom Principato to the stage. Next up will be Memphis Gold, and then at 6:30 pm our headliner Roomful of Blues (pictured above) will bring it on home. You won’t want to miss this signature event! For more information go to www.columbiapike.org.
County Board to Consider Arlington Mill Project
The Use Permit and amendments to the Master Transportation Plan for redevelopment of the Arlington Mill Community Center property will go before the County Board at their carry over meeting on Tuesday, June 24 at 6:00 pm. Plans for the Form Based Code compliant project were recently refined as part of a design review and value engineering, reducing the mixed-use building at 4975 Columbia Pike and S. Dinwiddie from 6 stories to 5, and the number of residential units from 203 to 192. The project also includes a 30,000 sq. ft. community center, a 9,000 sq. ft. gymnasium, a public plaza, 3,000 sq. ft. of retail space, and underground parking. The plans were approved by the Planning Commission on June 4 with some conditions including the need for additional work on trail connections and the location of transformers. For an image of this and other development projects on the Pike go to: http://www.columbiapike.org/UPDATE/93207.html
World Gym Signs Letter of Intent for Space at the Halstead
According to the website of KLNB, the broker handling the leasing of retail space at the Halstead (corner of Columbia Pike and S. Walter Reed Dr.) World Gym intends to lease 6,000 square ft. on the ground floor of the building facing 11th St. S. As the only health club in the Pike’s Town Center area, this will be a welcome addition. Other companies that are in discussions with KLNB for space at the Halstead include a café, a salon, and a sandwich shop. Parties interested in retail space may contact Julie Cyphers of KLNB at (703) 722-2707.
Public Meetings to be Held Regarding Washington Boulevard Bridge Replacement, Four Mile Run Restoration Project, and the Penrose Town Square
Washington Boulevard Bridge Replacement-- The public is invited to learn about the proposal to replace the Washington Boulevard Bridge and other related interchange modifications at a meeting to be held on Tuesday, June 17th between 6:00 P.M. and 9:00 P.M at the Thomas Jefferson Middle School, 125 South Old Glebe Road in Arlington. The presentation of the project will begin at 7:00 P.M. For more information go to www.virginiadot.org/projects/nova/27-244WorkingGroup.asp
Four Mile Run Public Restoration Project--Arlington County and the City of Alexandria have produced initial design guidelines that will guide the visual and physical character of future improvements in the Four Mile Run Corridor. The public is invited to an open house meeting on Wednesday, June 18 from 6:30 p.m. -9:00 p.m. at the Arlington County Park Operations Building, 2700 S. Taylor St. to learn about the exciting changes in store. For additional information, visit the project web site at www.novaregion.org/index.asp?NID-214.
Design Plans for the New Penrose Town Square--
The public can see the latest plans and get an update on the master planning process for Penrose Square at a community meeting to be held on June 10th, 7:00 p.m. at the Walter Reed Community Center, 2909 16th St. S. This town square will be located at the intersection of Columbia Pike and South Barton Street (currently the surface parking lot of the Adams Square Shopping Center), in front of the Penrose Square mixed use development. Preliminary concepts for the new public space include paved activity and performance areas, an interactive water feature, public art, turf mounds, and shaded outdoor seating areas. The square will also be home to a new Super Stop station, which will support the current Pike Ride system as well as the streetcar planned for Columbia Pike. The Master Plan will be presented to the County Board for approval at their July 19, 2008 meeting. For more information go to: http://www.arlingtonva.us/Departments/ParksRecreation/scripts/planning/ParksRecreationScriptsPlanningInDesign.aspx
Columbia Pike Featured in New Book on Urban Planning
Columbia Pike is one of eight case studies profiled in Getting Density Right: Tools for Creating Vibrant Compact Development, a new book published by the Urban Land Institute. The book describes innovative revitalization tools used throughout the nation to better support compact development, including visioning, planning, and new regulations.
DCRealEstate.com Says “Destination” is the New Buzzword for Columbia Pike
A lengthy June 3 article on the DCRealEstate.com blogspot applauds Columbia Pike’s revitalization and highlights the Streetcar Project as well as the Columbia Village, Siena Park, and Penrose Square developments. To see the article go to http://dcmud.blogspot.com/2008/06/columbia-pike-streetcar-named-desire.html
Columbia Pike Condo Offers Green Roof Overview and Tour
On Saturday, June 21, 11am - 12:30 pm, come hear from The Palazzo Condo Association about how they were able to conserve energy, reduce stormwater runoff, and conserve energy by installing an 8,000 square foot green roof on the top of its building. Learn about their experience with this innovative green technique, what they had to do to get approval to implement it, and get a first hand look at it yourself. This free event is one of a series of Green It Workshops sponsored by Arlington County’s Fresh AIRE initiative. The Palazzo Condo is located at 5353 Columbia Pike. Meet at the building entrance, no reservations required. For more information, call 703-228-3160.
Pedestrian Bridge Upgrade Project to Begin
The pedestrian bridge across Rt. 50 that connects the Arlington Heights neighborhood to Ashton Heights and Lyon Park to the north is about to be renovated. In the next week or so the bridge will be closed and lane closures will begin to allow crews to perform the upgrades. The lane to be closed will alternate daily and closures are expected to last 5 weeks. The $500,000 project includes replacing the bridge’s metal decking and fencing, improving railings, installing new lighting, and roofing and painting the bridge. For more information contact Myllisa Kennedy at 703-3152.
Looking for Opportunities to Get Creative? Take part in the Labyrinth Journey with the Faith Renaissance Art Studio!
Artist Pauline Daniels is offering a four-session ceramic artworks class exploring the labyrinth. Students will work with clay and glazes, and have the opportunity to bring together art and spirit in a relaxed studio environment. No art experience is necessary! Classes will be held Saturdays July 12- August 2 from 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. For more information email arts@arlingtonumc.com, and watch for updates at www.faithrenaissance.org.
Wakefield Teacher Lauded; Students Win Scholarships
In more good news for Wakefield High School, Felix Herrera who teaches English as a Second Language there received the Victoria D. de Sanchez Hispanic Teacher of the Year award at Marymount University’s Education Dinner in May. And, at an awards reception to be held yesterday the Arlington Community Foundation awarded $70,000 in scholarships to 30 Wakefield students past and present. The awards will help these young scholars begin or continue to pursue their college educations at institutions including the University of Virginia, William & Mary, Virginia Tech, George Mason University, Princeton, Catholic University, and Northern Virginia Community College.
Real Estate in 22204 Still Selling Well
Residential properties in the 22204 zip code area of Arlington County are selling! In total 158 properties were sold in the 1st quarter of 2008. 65 single family homes went under contract in the first quarter 2008 with an average list price of $509,080 and sold price of $499,238, and were on the market for an average of 91.5 days. Meanwhile, 45 town home, duplex, row house (including condo town homes) properties were contracted for at an average list price of $367,156 with 89 days on market. And, 48 condos received contracts with an average list price of $238,620 and average days on market of 92. While the statistics for the first quarter of 2008 are off a bit from the same quarter in 2007, it is important to note that the area continues to be in demand. Statistics provided by Nick Kuhn, Associate Broker, McEnearney Associates, based on data from the MRIS. If you would like a market update tailored to your community, civic or condo association, contact Nick at 703-671-5225, NickKuhn@realtor.com or visit NickKuhn.com.
New Small Business Opens on the Pike
Ruth Beauty Studio, 1509 Columbia Pike, recently opened its doors for business. Business owner and Columbia Pike resident Ruth Ambaye spent 11 years as a make-up artist at Nordstrom’s before realizing her dream of owning a beauty salon. Call 703-685-0316 for an appointment. Ruth Beauty Studio is located next to Dama Bakery where you can get both delicious Napolean pastries and traditional Ethiopian baked goods.
Forest Glen Invites Neighbors to its 50th Anniversary Party
On Sunday, June 8 at 3:00, the smallest civic association in Arlington kicks off a big celebration of its 50th anniversary. Located within walking distance of the Pike, Forest Glen invites all neighbors to share in the fun. Free entertainment will be provided by Madlantic and food and drink will be available. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. To get there, go to the Long Branch Nature Center, walk left (away from Carlin Springs) and make a right uphill…and follow the music! For more info, contact Julie_angelis@hotmail.com.
Community Chorus Concert to Benefit Black Heritage Museum
On Sunday, June 15th at 4:00 p.m., come hear The Columbia Pike Community Chorus present Changed My Name, a cantata composed by Linda Twine that celebrates the lives of Sojourner Truth and Harriet Tubman. The concert is free; voluntary donations will benefit the Black Heritage Museum of Arlington. The performance will be held at Trinity Church, 2217 Columbia Pike, Arlington. For more information, contact Barbara Stefan, Music Director at musicmin@tecarl.org or 703-920-7077.
Expanded Farmers Market Enjoying Strong Season
CPRO is proud to bring you the Columbia Pike Farmers Market which takes place each Sunday through November from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm in Pike Park, at the corner of S. Walter Reed Dr. and Columbia Pike. Come out and see old friends, greet new vendors and take advantage of the fresh local produce, organic meats, baked goods, dairy, flowers, coffee, tea, and handmade chocolates, salsas, soaps and more.
CPRO Members Support the Pike’s Revitalization
CPRO receives an annual grant from Arlington County that makes up almost one-third of our budget. For the remainder we rely on the support of our members, as well as organizations and companies who sponsor our events. Please consider becoming a CPRO member today. To access a membership form please follow the link below. Thank You! http://www.columbiapike.org/membership/index_E.html
Contact Us
As always, the CPRO staff welcomes your input. Email your suggestions, questions, comments, and offers of assistance to Jim Whittaker at jwhittaker@columbiapike.org; Pam Holcomb at pholcomb@columbiapike.org; or Amy McWilliams at amcwilliams@columbiapike.org or call 703-892-2776. Know someone who would like to receive the CPRO e-Newsletter? Please send us email addresses and we will add them to our distribution list. As always, for more information about what’s happening on the Pike go to www.columbiapike.org
May 2008 CPRO e-Newsletter
Farmers Market Opens This Sunday for 13th Delicious Year
Another sure sign of spring is the reopening of the popular Columbia Pike Farmers Market this Sunday, May 4, from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm! The Market will take place each Sunday through November in Pike Park, at the corner of S. Walter Reed Dr. and Columbia Pike. Opening day festivities will include live music by Buck Empson, and performances by local juggler Patty Johnson. What’s more, courtesy of the Arlington Cinema N’ Drafthouse, selected vendors will offer free movie passes with a purchase of $5 or more.
This year, in addition to old favorites like Creek Side Produce, Twin Springs Fruit Farm, Smith Fresh Organic Meats, Bonaparte Breads, and Toigo Orchards, an exciting array of new vendors have joined the market. These include organic Stoneybrook Farms, as well as local producers of milk, butter, yogurt, salsas, and tea. These join the Virginia Chocolate Co., The Jam Jar, Hondo Coffee, Union Street Soapworks, and other vendors who are happy to be coming back to the Pike for another year. For a full list of vendors at the Columbia Pike Farmers Market go to: http://www.columbiapike.org/MARKET/index_E.html
Giant to Offer Interim Pharmacy and Grocery Services
With demolition of the existing Giant grocery and pharmacy stores in the Adam’s Square Shopping Center several months away, Giant’s Director of Real Estate has issued a letter spelling out plans to serve existing customers during construction of the replacement store in the Penrose Square development. The plan includes operating a pharmacy at 2408 Columbia Pike, the vacant storefront next to Rappahannock Coffee. The letter indicates the interim pharmacy will open “simultaneously with or as soon as practicable after the closing of the Adams Square unit.” For grocery service Giant plans to provide a free round-trip shuttle from the interim pharmacy to the Bailey’s Crossroads Giant on Saturday mornings. Pursuant to a condition of the Penrose Square site plan, the County Manager must approve Giant’s interim service plan before the County will issue a Clearing, Grading, and Demolition permit. To see a rendering of the future Penrose Square project please visit: http://www.columbiapike.org/UPDATE/93207.html
Pike Featured as Part of Real Estate Showcase & Bus Tour Columbia Pike will be one of five areas featured during the 2008 Arlington Real Estate Showcase & Bus Tour that takes place on June 12 from 7:30 am-12:00 noon, followed by gourmet bites and refreshments at the new Hotel Palomar. This popular event begins with a trade show and then includes a bus tour of areas with Arlington’s newest and most innovative development projects. It’s a great opportunity to learn about what’s new on the Pike and all around the County, and get a peek at what’s up and coming in the next year. For more information and on-line registration, go to www.arlingtonvirginiausa.com/bustour2008
County Initiates New Online Tax Filing for Businesses
Arlington Commissioner of Revenue Ingrid Morroy recently announced the launch of a new business tax filing program. The system will allow businesses to file business license and monthly meals tax returns online and pay at the same time, without completing any paperwork. To access the system business owners will enter their Federal Employer Identification or Social Security Number and their business account number. Once the return has been electronically submitted and taxes paid, the system provides a confirmation. For more information call the Business Tax Division at 703-228-3060. To access the website go to www.arlingtonva.us/cor
Plans for Bob & Edith’s 2 Site Coming Together
Local developer Bob Eisenberg is refining plans for a 4-story mixed-use project at 4707 Columbia Pike, the former home of a Bob & Edith’s Diner. Eisenberg, who is President of Heritage Property Co. LLC, a firm he established in 2006, said he has had his eyes on the site for some time, and is excited about the opportunities that Columbia Pike presents. He is committed to following the Columbia Pike Form Based Code, and said he “wants to build something the neighborhood will be proud of.” Eisenberg recently attended a meeting of the Barcroft School and Civic League where he met some of those neighbors and presented conceptual plans for his site. The development, which is expected to cost $26 million, is slated to include 13,000 sq. ft. of ground floor retail space, and 65 apartments on the three floors above. Eisenberg hopes to obtain approvals and start construction in about a year, and complete the project in the summer of 2010.
Top Notch Line Up Planned for Columbia Pike Blues Festival!
Along with headliner Roomful of Blues, five more great bands have been booked for the 13th Annual Columbia Pike Blues Festival to be held on Saturday June 21, 1:00 to 8:00 pm. on S. Walter Reed Dr. just north of the Pike. They are Memphis Gold, Tom Principato, Melanie Mason Band, Karl Stoll & The Dangerzone, and Danny Blew & The Blues Crew. “This is our best line up ever!” exclaimed Steve McWilliams, who has helped CPRO book talent, manage the stage, and serve as MC for a number of years. The popular street party will also feature international foods, cold beverages, arts & crafts and other vendors, civic groups, children’s activities, and more. CPRO relies on sponsors to underwrite the costs of putting on the festival and to help keep admission free. If you would like your company to gain valuable visibility while supporting one of Arlington’s favorite community celebrations, please consider becoming a Blues Festival Sponsor. For sponsorship information or information about renting booth space please go to: http://www.columbiapike.org/home/245566.html
Washington Boulevard Bridge Replacement Project—Public Forum Scheduled
The public is invited to learn about the proposal to replace the Washington Boulevard Bridge and other related interchange modifications. The hearing will be held on Tuesday, June 17th between 6:00 P.M. and 9:00 P.M at the Thomas Jefferson Middle School, 125 South Old Glebe Road in Arlington. The presentation of the project will begin at 7:00 P.M. The replacement project includes rebuilding the entire Columbia Pike/Washington Boulevard interchange, beginning .03 miles north of I-395 along Washington Blvd. and ending .20 miles north of Columbia Pike, and from S. Quinn Street to S. Orme Street along Columbia Pike. For more information about the project plans, see www.virginiadot.org/projects/nova/27-244WorkingGroup.asp
Hollywood Video Store Closes
The Hollywood Video store in the Westmont Shopping Center (3263 Columbia Pike) closed for good this week as part of the bankruptcy reorganization of their parent company, Movie Gallery. With nearly 5,000 square feet of well appointed space, this creates a nice opportunity for a new retailer to come to the Pike. If you know of a likely candidate, please call CPRO at 703-892-2776.
Barcroft Elementary Wins Praise; Randolph Teacher Honored
Did you see the piece in Washington Post Magazine’s April 13 Education Review? There it was, Barcroft Elementary being described by the reporter, Jay Mathews, as “an educational jewel, with enthusiastic teachers in a sparkling building overseen by one of the most admired principals in the region.” And, to make it even better, the piece includes not one, but two quotes from CPRO’s own Managing Director Pam Holcomb! To see the article please visit:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/04/08/AR2008040802043.html?referrer=emailarticle
In other good news for Pike area schools, Ward Merritt, who has been teaching second grade at Randolph Elementary for 13 years, has been awarded the Agnes Meyer Outstanding Teacher Award from the Washington Post. Congratulations!
New Task Force on Diversity Established
The Arlington County Board has named the members of its new Diversity Dialogue Task Force, which is an extension of Board Chair Walter Tejada’s efforts to foster greater understanding across Arlington’s many cultures. The Task Force will play a key role in 3 “world café” style public dialogues this year, and develop recommendations on diversity related matters to the County Board. The panel is chaired by Reverend Dr. Leonard Hamlin, and has seven other members including CPRO Board member Dr. Teshaye Teferra of ECDC, and Columbia Heights resident Wuiping Yap who also serves on Arlington’s Multicultural Commission.
It’s Performance Time!
Wakefield High School presents the musical Grease on May 2, 3, 9, and 10. All performances will start at 7:00 pm in the Wakefield auditorium located at 4901 S. Chesterfield Rd. in Arlington. For more information contact Alicia Zekan at 703.228.6705. And, at Kenmore Middle School (200 S. Carlin Springs Road), Bowen McCauley Dance will be performing the world premier of Saint Saens’ Carnival of the Animals on Saturday May 3 at 7 pm and Sunday May 4 at 3 pm. Following the Sunday performance only, young audience members will be invited to the stage to join Artistic Director, Lucy Bowen McCauley, and Company for a free creative-movement class for children. Visit www.bmdc.org to purchase tickets in advance. Tickets will also be sold at the door. Also, a benefit youth concert for the Children’s Defense Fund will be presented Sunday, May 4 at Trinity Episcopal Church, 2217 Columbia Pike. The concert is a joint effort by the Columbia Pike MusiKids, Arlington Youth Chorus, Redeemer Lutheran Church Youth & Children’s Choirs, Barrett Elementary School Chorus, and the Columbia Pike Community Chorus. For more information contact Barbara Steffan at 703-920-7077 or at musicmin@tecarl.org. Meanwhile, CPRO’s Associate Director Amy McWilliams is currently appearing in Kander and Ebbs’ The Happy Time in the Ark space at the Signature Theatre in Shirlington. The show, which the Washington Post called "a little charmer," includes a collection of fine theatrical songs celebrating the joys and disappointments of life. It runs through June 1. For tickets call 703-573-SEAT or visit www.signature-theatre.org.
CPRO Members Support the Pike’s Revitalization
CPRO receives an annual grant from Arlington County that makes up almost one-third of our budget. For the remainder we rely on the support of our members, as well as organizations and companies who sponsor our events. Please consider becoming a CPRO member today. To access a membership form please follow the link below. Thank You! http://www.columbiapike.org/membership/index_E.html
Contact Us
As always, the CPRO staff welcomes your input. Email your suggestions, questions, comments, and offers of assistance to Jim Whittaker at jwhittaker@columbiapike.org; Pam Holcomb at pholcomb@columbiapike.org; or Amy McWilliams at amcwilliams@columbiapike.org or call 703-892-2776. Know someone who would like to receive the CPRO e-Newsletter? Please send us email addresses and we will add them to our distribution list. As always, for more information about what’s happening on the Pike go to www.columbiapike.org
April 2008 CPRO e-Newsletter
Don’t Miss the Arlington Home Show & Expo this Saturday!
For the second consecutive year CPRO has partnered with the County’s Housing Division to bring Arlington its own home improvement show! More than 60 exhibitors will be on hand at the Walter Reed Community Center offering ideas, products, and services for all types of projects in and around your home, and admission is FREE. In addition, the County’s Fresh AIRE initiative will be giving away compact florescent light bulbs to the first 250 people who visit their booth, a number of free classes and seminars will be offered, and many experts on improving your home’s energy efficiency will be available. For more information go to www.ArlingtonHomeShow.org
Tejada Draws Crowd to Columbia Pike Business Gathering
Nearly 100 members of the Pike’s small business community were in attendance at the March 19 gathering of the Columbia Pike Business Opportunity Network, and they were treated to inspiring remarks by Walter Tejada, Chairman of the Arlington County Board. Tejada encouraged the group to continue its efforts to promote the Pike and the unique and diverse businesses that make their home here. He spoke with pride of the County’s commitment to remain a welcoming community to immigrants, and of the need to revitalize Columbia Pike while maintaining affordability for the Pike’s residents and businesses. The event, which was emceed by Tara Miles of the County’s BizLaunch program, was sponsored by HSBC Bank and the Pan American Bakery.
Plans Discussed for Washington Boulevard Bridge
On the evening of March 16 representatives of VDOT presented updated plans to area residents for the Washington Boulevard Bridge replacement project which will include rebuilding the entire Columbia Pike/Washington Boulevard interchange. The latest plans move a traffic light on the Pike from S. Quinn St. to S. Queen St., and include a sound barrier near the southbound ramp from Washington Blvd. to the Pike. Next steps include obtaining final approval of the design, holding a citizens meeting, conducting a noise wall survey, completing detailed design work, and putting the project out to bid. Construction, which will be managed in 20 sub-phases to ensure continuous traffic flow, is expected to take 24 months once they have broken ground, and cost the State $45.6 million, $39.4 million of which is already in place. The local community has expressed a desire to name the bridge “Freedman’s Village Bridge” which would require action by the Virginia General Assembly.
Giant to Remain Open Awhile Longer
Developers of the Penrose Square project report that final details are being worked out on the lease for a new Giant store, and they are in the process of selecting a general contractor for the large construction project that will create significant new retail space, nearly 300 apartments, and over 700 underground parking spaces. “Before long we’ll be making plans for a groundbreaking event,” said Andrew Gutowski of Carbon Thompson Developers. In the meantime, the existing Giant grocery and pharmacy will remain open. For future updates check the CPRO website at www.columbiapike.org
Army National Guard Readiness Center Expansion Plans Spark Concerns over Parking
In response to 2005 Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) Commission recommendations, new construction is planned at the National Guard site on S. George Mason Dr. in order to accommodate 1200 employees being moved out of Crystal City. While the new facilities are scheduled to open in 2011, there is no funding to build the additional parking garage that is also planned. The civic associations representing the Alcova Heights and Barcroft neighborhoods have written a letter to the Army National Guard disagreeing with the Draft Environmental Assessment’s “finding of no significant impact.” While the civic groups do not oppose expanding the facility they believe the project should not proceed until funding can be provided for a new parking garage to be completed in time for the opening of the expanded facilities.
Police Target Speeders in Pedestrian Safety Effort
As part of a 2008 “Street Smart” Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Campaign, Arlington County Police targeted three intersections on Columbia Pike (S. Scott St, S. George Mason Dr. and S. Frederick St) for stepped up safety enforcement between 5-7pm on March 26. In those areas, 40 citations were issued; 10 of the 40 were for speeding near a crosswalk and the rest were for miscellaneous non-moving violations (e.g., no seat belt, expired inspection and improper display of tag). Arlington County Police hope to carry out a similar targeted enforcement effort along the Columbia Pike corridor, in either the summer or early fall.
Farmers Market Set to Reopen on Sunday, May 4
In another sure sign of spring, the Columbia Pike Farmers Market returns to Pike Park (S. Walter Reed Dr. and Columbia Pike) on May 4, and each successive Sunday, from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. Come out for early season produce and other products, greet our long standing members, and welcome new vendors to the market. As always, our market helps you to “eat local” and supports sustainable agriculture. In addition, this year we will invite a small number of arts and crafts people to join us. Know someone who would like to participate in the Market? Have them call CPRO at 703-892-2776.
Initial Opening of “Dog Paws” Planned for Later this Month
The long-awaited opening of Dog Paws ‘N Cat Claws University is just around the corner as contractors work to complete build-out of the former Rite-Aid Pharmacy at 940 S. George Mason Dr. On April 21 they will open the doors to their doggie day care facility, and a grooming center and retail store will follow soon behind. Pet training classes are being scheduled for the summer. Special rates are available for clients who sign up before the doors open. For more information call 703-931-5057 or go to www.dnpcc.com
22204 Holding its Own in Residential Real Estate Market
More than $14.2 million dollars worth of homes were sold in the Pike’s 22204 zip code in February of 2008, up 7% over February 2007. The number of homes sold also increased from 30 to 33, including 22 single family homes and 11 condo/coop units. However, average days on the market grew from 74 to 110, and the average sale price declined slightly from $443,768 to $432,409. Jeff Payne of Prudential Carruthers Realtors, who provided the MLS data, said “Arlington and 22204 continue to perform well and show that real estate here is a good long term investment.” For more information contact him at jeff.payne@prudentialcarruthers.com.
County Provides Eco-Friendly Spring Cleaning Opportunity
The Arlington Environmental Collection and Recycling Event (E-CARE) will take place on Saturday, April 19th from 8:30a.m.-3:00p.m. at the Thomas Jefferson Middle School. Take advantage of this semi-annual event to safely dispose of household hazardous materials, recycle old electronic equipment and small metal items, as well as donate bicycles, books, shoes, and eyeglasses. There is no fee for the collection of household hazardous materials and the regular handling fee for computer monitors and televisions will be waived. In addition, compost bins will be for sale. For those interested in dropping off bicycles, a $10 donation is requested in order to help Bikes for the World ship the bicycle to a developing country. For more information, call 703-228-6832 or go to www.arlingtonva.us/Departments/EnvironmentalServices/EnvironmentalServicesEnvex.aspx
Historic Columbia Pike Church Celebrates its 100th Year with a Free Centennial Concert
The Arlington Presybyterian Church (APC), located at 3507 Columbia Pike, is commemorating its 100 year anniversary with a special free concert open to the public. The Arlington Presbyterian Chancel Choir and Cantate Chamber Singers will present music of a century ago, hymns and anthem favorites. For more information, please call 703-920-5660 or go to www.arlingtonpresbyterian.org/music_notes.htm.
More Dancing Comes to the Pike!
Check out the new YesOn2Salsa Learn 2 Dance Studio (951 S. George Mason Dr.,2nd floor of the Wachovia Bank building, www.yeson2salsa.com). A variety of dance classes—Salsa, Mambo, Merengue, and Hip-hop—are being offered by expert dance instructors Karen Aguilar, Orlando Machuca and Ronald Rios. All levels of dancers, including beginners are welcome! Try out your new moves at Cecilia’s (2619 Columbia Pike, www.ceciliasclub.com) which features a large new dance floor, lessons, and the best Salsa bands around. And there’s more! The Center Dance Company and its school, Arlington Center for Dance, are moving to a location just off the Pike at 3443 Carlin Springs Road (next to the REI and Tuesday Morning stores). The Center offers classes and workshops to children and adult students in ballet, jazz, modern, tap and conditioning. The new location offers this outstanding community-oriented dance company and school almost 21,000 square feet of space—three times more than their old location in Clarendon. To learn more about the new location, classes and performances, or how to support the Center’s substantial build-out expenses necessary to make it a truly state-of-art dance studio, go to www.arldance.org.
Come Sing with the Columbia Pike Community Chorus
The Columbia Pike Community Chorus is welcoming new and returning singers for their “Juneteenth” Black Heritage concert “Changed My Name,” a cantata inspired by the lives of Sojourner Truth and Harriet Tubman, and composed by Broadway music director Linda Twine. All are welcome to participate! Rehearsals for the June 15th concert are held on Monday 7-9 pm, beginning April 14 at Trinity Episcopal Church (2217 Columbia Pike, www.trinitychurcharlington.org). Free parking is available across the street from the church. For more information contact Barbara Stefan, Music Director at musicmin@tecarl.org or 703-920-7077.
Contact Us
As always, the CPRO staff welcomes your input. Email your suggestions, questions, comments, and offers of assistance to jwhittaker@columbiapike.org or call 703-892-2776. Know someone who would like to receive the CPRO e-Newsletter? Please send us email addresses and we will add them to our distribution list. As always, for more information about what’s happening on the Pike go to www.columbiapike.org
March 2008 CPRO e-Newsletter
Excellent Progress Made on Design for Arlington Mill Project
On March 10 the County and its partner, Public Private Alliances, presented their latest plans for the redevelopment of the Arlington Mill Community Center site to the Columbia Pike Form Based Code Advisory Working Group. While still being refined, the group was able to visualize many aspects of the project, including the modern architectural style of the building, depicted here. According to Hunter Moore, the County’s lead representative for effort, the design was chosen to create a distinct and iconic look appropriate for the building’s civic purpose. The 6-story tower on the left side of the image, at the corner of the Pike and S. Dinwiddie, will contain space for community center programs, some ground floor retail, and rental apartments on the upper floors. Extending to the right of the image is a large gymnasium which sits behind a new public plaza. To the north of this building along Dinwiddie will be a 5-story residential building. The Advisory Working Group reviewed the plans using a 370-point Form Based Code checklist. While the project has been designed largely to meet the Form Based Code, the County Board will be asked to allow variations for the civic building on the Pike, but not, however, for the residential building, which will be fully compliant. The current community center is expected to close this summer, with demolition planned for this fall. For a rendering of the project, and for more information about this and other developments go to: http://www.columbiapike.org/UPDATE/93207.html
2nd Annual Arlington Home Show & Expo Set for April 12
Building on last year’s successful event, CPRO is again partnering with Arlington County’s Housing Division to bring local residents a one-stop shopping opportunity for all their home improvement needs. Whether you are looking to put an addition on your home, remodel a kitchen or bath, install energy efficient replacement windows, or to pursue dozens of other projects, exhibitors will be on hand to answer your questions and show you their products. Plan to attend this wonderful, local home show on Saturday, April 12, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm at the Walter Reed Community Center. Admission is FREE. For more information go to: www.arlingtonhomeshow.org.
Walter Tejada to Address Columbia Pike Business Group
The next gathering of the Columbia Pike Business Opportunity Network will feature a special guest appearance by the Chairman of the Arlington County Board, Walter Tejada. The event will take place at 8:00 am on Wednesday, March 19 at the Walter Reed Community Center, 2909 16th St. S. Special thanks go to Michaela Whelan and HSBC Bank for sponsoring the gathering, and to Pan American Bakery for providing breakfast treats. All are welcome. To register for this FREE event go to:
www.arlingtonvirginiausa.com/bizlaunch/events, or call Pam Holcomb of CPRO at 703-892-2776.
“Roomful of Blues” Booked for 13th Annual Festival!!
CPRO is pleased to announce that the legendary band “Roomful of Blues” will headline the 2008 Columbia Pike Blues Festival on Saturday June 21, 1:00 to 8:00 pm. Since 1967, the combination of swing, rock ‘n’ roll, jump, blues and soul has earned the multiple award-winning group just praise. As one critic put it, “the group’s greatest asset is how well the band performs as a cohesive unit. Throughout, the horns hop, the keyboards sway, the vocals enthuse, the guitar rocks, and the band jumps.” Get excited! Roomful of Blues, one of the finest jump and swing blues bands in the land, is coming to Columbia Pike. Check out this flash postcard from the band:
www.roomful.com/downloads/images/4900ROB_R.swf
School Board Candidates to Debate at Wakefield
Candidates seeking the Democratic Party endorsement for School Board are being brought together for a debate at Wakefield High School on Monday March 24, at 7:30 pm. The free event is being sponsored by Columbia Pike area civic associations as a service to local residents who wish to learn more about the candidates and their ideas.
Columbia Pike Properties Gain Recognition
Two Columbia Pike apartment communities were among the winners of the 2008 Landscape Recognition Awards from the Arlington County Beautification Committee. The Pike area champs are Dorchester Towers at 24001 Columbia Pike, owned by the E.G. Reinsch Companies, along with Quebec Apartments at 4014 Columbia Pike, owned by Silverwood Associates. The beautifully maintained Dorchester, located in the Penrose neighborhood, was built in 1963 and boasts lush grounds and a rooftop garden. The Quebec, located in Douglas Park neighborhood, was built in 1953 and renovated in 2002 and includes 129 affordable units along with 43 market rate apartments in a green park-like setting. Congratulations to the Reinsch and Silverwood companies, both long time CPRO members! Meanwhile, last month the Directors of the Community Appearance Alliance of Northern Virginia voted unanimously to present a special award to the impressive Air Force Memorial on the eastern end of the Pike. Well done!
Columbia Pike MusiKids: A Great Experience for Kids
The Columbia Pike MusiKids are welcoming new singers for their spring benefit concert, "A Place for YOUth," songs that honor the young. Children in grades K-5 are welcome, no auditions are required, and performances are free to the public. Rehearsals are Mondays starting March 24, 5:30 to 6:15 pm, and the concert is Sunday, May 4, at 4:00 pm. To enroll your child for this concert, email musicmin@tecarl.org, or call Barbara Stefan, Music Director, at 703-920-7077 . Rehearsals and performance at Trinity Church, 2217 Columbia Pike, Arlington. "A Place for YOUth" will also feature the Arlington Youth Chorus, the youth and children’s choirs of Redeemer Lutheran Church of McLean, Barrett Elementary School Chorus, and the Columbia Pike Community Chorus. Free-will donations received at the performance will benefit the Children’s Defense Fund (CDF).
Learn How to Create an Effective Business Plan
Arlington Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and George Mason University- Mason Enterprise Center at School of Public Policy in partnership with Arlington Economic Development is presenting a seminar entitled: ’Business Plan - The Universal Tool.’ The seminar will cover the important elements of a business plan, how to create your own, and how it can help you to effectively run your business. Learn how a business plan is used when approaching a bank for financing, applying for government contracts and is also an essential guide for your management team.
Date & Time: Tuesday, March 25th, 2008, 11:30am – 1:00pm
Venue: Suite 341, 901 S Highland St, Arlington, VA 22204
Directions: For directions click here
Admission: $20.00 (Cash only) Paid at the door
RSVP: Required by 5:00pm March 24th 2008
For more information: Contact Pratibha Shenoy at 703 892 1528 or email pshenoy@gmu.edu.
The Pike Area Offers Many Houses of Worship
Looking for a congregation? Check out any of these places of worship:
Arlington Baptist Church; 714 S. Monroe St.; 979-7344; arlingtonbaptist.com
Arlington Presbyterian Church; 3507 Columbia Pike; 920-5660; arlingtonpresbyterian.org
Arlington Seventh-Day Adventist Church; 3425 8th St. S.; 979-4860
Arlington United Methodist Church; 716 S. Glebe Rd.; 979-7527; arlingtonumc.com
Bangladesh Islamic Center; 2611 S. Nelson St.; 778-1550
Church of God; 790 S. Carlin Springs Rd.; 671-6726
Congregation Etz Hayim; 2920 Arlington Blvd.; 979-4466; etzhayim.net
Greenbrier Baptist Church; 5401 7th Rd. South; 703-671-6688
Holy Martyrs of Vietnam Church; 915 S. Wakefield St.; 553-0370; cttdva.net
Long Life With Jesus Spiritual Baptist Church; 1611 S. Walter Reed Dr.; 920-1128
Mt. Zion Baptist Church; 3500 19th St. S.; 979-7411; mountzionbaptist.com
Our Savior Lutheran Church; 901 S. Taylor St.; 892-4846; osva.org
Second Church, Christ Scientist; 700 S. Buchanan St.; 920-4877
St. John’s Baptist Church; 1905 Columbia Pike; 920-4228
St. Thomas More Cathedral Catholic Church; 3901 Cathedral Lane; 528-6781; cathedrealstm.org
Trinity Episcopal Church; 2217 Columbia Pike; 703-920-7077; trinitychurcharlington.org
Unitarian Universalist Church of Arlington; 4444 Arlington Blvd.; 892-2565; uucava.org
Contact Us
As always, the CPRO staff welcomes your input. Email your suggestions, questions, comments, and offers of assistance to jwhittaker@columbiapike.org or call 703-892-2776. Know someone who would like to receive the CPRO e-Newsletter? Please send us email addresses and we will add them to our distribution list. As always, for more information about what’s happening on the Pike go to www.columbiapike.org
February 2008 CPRO e-Newsletter
Digging the Pike!
Excavation of sites for two major projects progressed quickly over the past month as crews continue to dig the holes necessary for underground parking at the Columbia Village (5440 Columbia Pike near S. Greenbrier St.) and Siena Park (2301 Columbia Pike at S. Wayne St.) developments. Jerry Brill, a resident of the Carlyle House next door to the Columbia Village construction site snapped this photo from the 9th floor of his building several weeks ago. Thanks Jerry! For updates on developments projects along the Pike, see www.columbiapike.org/UPDATE/index_E.html
County Board Approves Concept Plan for
a Mixed-Use Development at the Arlington Mill Community Center Site
At its January 29 meeting the County Board endorsed the Arlington Mill Community Center Concept Plan, making it possible to meet the application deadline for an affordable housing tax credit program offered through the Virginia Housing Development Authority. The project includes a 6-story building at the corner of Columbia Pike and S. Dinwiddie St. that features a new community center with a large gymnasium, residential apartments, some ground floor retail, and a public plaza. To the north along Dinwiddie will be a 5-story residential building. Altogether the project includes just over 200 residences, of which approximately 61 will be affordable units for those at 60% of the area’s median household income level. In order to accommodate this plan, technical adjustments to the Form Based Code were approved by the Board on December 15. These include redrawing the revitalization district boundary to include the northern portion of the Arlington Mill property, designating a portion of Dinwiddie St. as “Avenue” site frontage, and modifying the planned width of Dinwiddie St. For more information go to: www.arlingtonva.us/Departments/ParksRecreation/forums/arlingtonmill/pdfs/page60672.pdf
Columbia Pike Restaurants Get Top Marks
The L.A. Bar & Grill at 2530 Columbia Pike is featured as the Bar of the Month in On Tap Magazine (www.ontaponline.com/view_article.php?article_id=10938), the DC metro area’s magazine for music, entertainment, nightlife and culture. If you haven’t checked out L.A. Bar & Grill or at least not recently (it’s under new management), find out for yourself why On Tap praised this friendly neighborhood bar for having some of the “best nightly specials in the area.” Congratulations also go to local favorites Thai Square (www.thaisquarerestaurant.com) and Bangkok 54 (www.Bangkok54restaurant.com), both named among the Washingtonian Magazine’s 100 best eateries in the metropolitan area, in their annual rankings released in January.
County Signs Contract to Continue Columbia Pike Utility Undergrounding Project
With Verizon and Dominion utility lines now installed in the underground ducts that were contructed along a 2,500 ft. stretch of the Pike from S. Garfield St. to S. Oakland St., the County recently awarded a $250,000 contract to an electrical contracting firm to connect the underground lines to individual businesses. When this work is complete, overhead wires will be removed, as will some of the utility poles, but other poles with light fixtures will remain on a temporary basis until streetscape improvements (including new sidewalks, trees, and ornamental light poles/fixtures) can be implemented. The County expects to put the streetscape work out to bid in the near future. This project, which began in 2002 is expected to be completed this year. It will cost approximately $10 million, and is funded 50% by the State and 50% by the County.
Meanwhile, the County is in the planning phase of a $6 million utility undergrounding project for a smaller stretch of the Pike from S. Wakefield St. to S. Four Mile Run. This project includes the realignment of S. Four Mile Run Dr. across from S. Buchanan St. and will require acquisition of a portion of the Goodwill parking lot. Construction of the duct system is expected to begin by Fall of this year, and streetscape work would begin by the Summer of 2009.
Bob & Edith’s 2 Site Under Contract
The property at 4707 Columbia Pike at S. Buchanan St. has found a buyer. A local development company has signed a contract to purchase the .87 acre site and is planning to build a 4-story mixed-use building in accordance with the Form Based Code. The site was once the home of a Roy Rogers restaurant, and more recently was used for the second Bob & Edith’s diner. The diner closed its doors on January 25, and patrons are encouraged to visit the original diner at 2310 Columbia Pike.
You Won’t Want to Miss These Upcoming Events!CPRO staff are busy planning a number of events for the upcoming months, including the next breakfast gathering of the Columbia Pike Business Opportunity Network (for more information go to http://www.columbiapike.org/calendar/29355.html), the 2nd Annual Arlington Home Show & Expo (go to http://www.columbiapike.org/calendar/29357.html), and the 13th Annual Columbia Pike Blues Festival (go to http://www.columbiapike.org/calendar/20449.html). Please mark your calendar for these important events.
Demolition of Adams Square Delayed
Carbon Thompson Development and Giant Food are reportedly working out the final details of a new lease which, once the agreement is finalized, will make way for the demolition of the current Adams Square Mall and the construction of the new Penrose Square Development. The new development site will include a flagship Giant grocery. Demolition of the existing site is now slated for Spring 2008, later than previously reported by CPRO. Plans are also being worked out to provide temporary Giant Pharmacy services at a nearby location so that ther
